27 Jan 2021 | 03:18 PM UTC
India: Activists plan protests in areas of Odisha State Jan. 29
Bharatiya Janata Party to protest in areas of Odisha State, India, Jan. 29. Increased security likely; localized disruptions possible.
Event
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) plans to hold protests at collector and sub-collector offices in areas of Odisha State Jan. 29. Protesters plan to rally in western and central districts; demonstrations are likely in Angul, Balangir, Bargarh, Boudh, Deogarh, Dhenkanal, Sambalpur, and Sundargarh districts. Bigger protests are probable in urban centers. The action is to demand changes to the paddy procurement process in the state. Participation in larger gatherings may range from dozens to a few hundred people.
Security personnel will likely monitor protests and may try to disperse more disruptive rallies. Clashes between security forces and protesters are possible, especially if police forcibly attempt to disperse demonstrators. Authorities have arrested dozens of protesters in previous related rallies. Demonstrators may block or march along nearby roadways, causing localized transport disruptions.
Advice
Avoid protests due to possible clashes. If violence occurs, leave the area immediately. Heed all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near rallies.
